Cane Farmers Await Payments as Chaudhry Raises Concerns

Fiji Labour Party Leader Mahendra Chaudhry has raised concerns over delays in cane payments, calling on Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka to address the issue and provide clarity to farmers.

Chaudhry claims that the third cane payment, which was due before March 31, has yet to be paid, leaving farmers waiting for answers for more than two weeks.

He questioned the lack of communication from both the Fiji Sugar Corporation and the Sugar Ministry, saying no official update has been provided on payment timelines or production figures from the country’s three sugar mills.

Chaudhry further alleged that farmers are owed millions in outstanding grant payments for replanting, productivity improvements, manual harvesting and lease renewals, with some of these payments reportedly outstanding for years.

He noted that while a government-guaranteed minimum price of $85 per tonne exists, farmers have so far received $57.13 per tonne, leaving an outstanding balance of $27.87.

Chaudhry questioned why the remaining payments could not be settled, stating that farmers deserve transparency and timely information regarding their earnings.

He also criticised the delay in convening a promised industry-wide conference, saying farmers feel overlooked despite the sugar industry supporting a significant portion of Fiji’s population.

Chaudhry said farmers are now demanding accountability and are calling on government leaders to directly address the challenges facing the sector.